In like a Lion and out like a Lion.

I was so glad to see February get here, and I am SO glad it is over. There have been so many changes in my life over the last 3 months, but over the last 3 weeks things have been ALL over the place. From a newborn niece, to a new apartment, to turning 28...what a roller coaster.

I am so thankful to have such great friends and family who have been supportive and that is an understatement. After a few mini breakdowns in February I am welcoming a new month with open arms. Somehow I must have subconsciously known that by the beginning of March I would need a break - so I am very pleased that a mini vacation to Palm Beach will be in store the first weekend in March. I am looking forward (another understatement) to spending some time with my friend Martha while sipping Dark and Stormies in the hot sun. With my early March recharging who knows what the end of the month could bring...but I have a great feeling about it already.

New addition to the family!

My niece, Olivia Marion Bond, was born yesterday on Valentine's Day. What a GREAT Vday gift....in fact, the only Vday gift....

I'm so glad that Valentine's Day will no longer be the most useless holiday out there!! Yay for birthdays!

Cold day for showings, but look at that VIEW!

I was lucky enough to show Highland Rose with Kim Swan the other day. A very COLD and windy Mid-Winter day, but just LOOK at that view!! Highland Rose is an exceptional waterfront listing nestled into the rocky coast of Maine overlooking Frenchman Bay. It was a great day in my real estate world to have shown this property!

I heart Bon Appetit magazine...

For some reason I seem to forget I subscribe to the wonderful Bon Appetit magazine and when it arrives in my mailbox each month it is like a mini Christmas!! This month, the wonderful and fabulous February, is my FAVORITE month of the year and to my surprise, the Editor in Chief of Bon Appetit concurs! So many great people born in this month....if I do say so myself.

As I read through Barbara Fairchild, Editor in Chief's, monthly letter I could not help but smile.

Here is a snippet to show you why:

So to my fellow partyers: Go ahead and jump into February, issue in hand - no fear, no frostbite, no fooling. I guarantee there's a delicious something or other waiting for you wherever you land.

New price on this Bar Harbor duplex....

Lakefront Estate for sale - new listing!

I am so pleased to share this incredible new listing in Ellsworth, Maine on the shore of Branch Lake. Set on 5 gorgeous and well landscaped acres this lakeside estate is breathtaking. Over 1000 feet of shore frontage on a pristine fresh water lake but only 30 minutes to Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park.

Set on an island, "Isle Wood" is the perfect destination location. As you cross the bridge to your own island, the worries slip away. Once pulling in the circular drive surrounded by gorgeous landscaping you'll see views of the water. Across the lake there are no other cottages to scar the view, rather a conservation of tall pines and natural wildlife. If dipping in the lake isn't your cup of tea, spend some time near the heated pool. The in-ground pool surrounded by lush perennial beds creates a haven for relaxation. Head inside the French Country style home and enjoy the design and construction that have spared no expense. Custom mahogany panels in the study create the perfect atmosphere to work from home or just enjoy a snifter of Scotch while reading a favorite novel. Drift off to sleep in the oversized master suite while the loons serenade you; this peaceful setting is one of a kind. In total 4 bedrooms, two of which have en suite baths. The pool house offers a sleeping loft for additional family or guests. When owning a lakefront estate in Maine, you know you will have guests!

Call or email for a viewing today.

Listed Exclusively by Erica Brooks Bates, The Swan Agency Sotheby's International Realty

207.288.5818 ext 18

erica.bates@swanagency.com

Tis the Season!

As I type the snow is falling and the wind is howling! The first real storm of the year is always so exciting. The rush at the grocery store the day before, the lines at the gas station full of plow trucks, and of course the buzz from everyone canceling/making plans. To hear any complaints about the weather this early in the season is quite obnoxious - I mean, HELLO, this is Maine after all.

The calm after the storm is also a nice feeling, as the sun shines on the fresh new snow it creates a clean and sparkly look. One of my favorite things about Winter in Maine is the beauty and quiet after a fresh snow. With Christmas around the corner a fresh blanket of snow is welcome, but in my opinion, if we are celebrating Winter in Maine snow is welcome through February (too bad it will still snow through April though right!?).